Handle Stress with Food

Key takeaways:

Embrace the principle of moderation – some “comfort foods” may not be considered “healthy” but can be helpful in the moment

Keep in mind that many foods we crave (e.g. refined sugars and processed foods) have the potential to make you feel good right away, but cause sudden spikes and drops in blood sugar and can leave you feeling worse in the long-run

Be mindful of your body! Pay attention to what makes your body feel good (long-term) and what makes your body feel bad.

Some key nutrients and foods that can help manage stress and anxiety:

Food Skills, CRC | Regent Park Community Food Centre, www.tcrc.ca

What is stress?

A normal response to environmental factors (“stressors”) that challenge our abilities to maintain equilibrium or balance within ourselves

Behavioural symptoms: changes in eating or sleeping patterns; social withdrawal; nervous habits such as nail biting or teeth grinding; increased use of caffeine, cigarettes, alcohol or other drugs; neglecting responsibilities or experiencing a decline in performance/productivity

Diet as a tool to manage stress:

Some foods have a calming effect in our body while others can act as stimulants and can even be triggers for stress and anxiety

The goal is to improve overall brain and body health through choosing foods that provide nutrients that support brain and body functions

Embrace the principle of moderation – some “comfort foods” may not be considered “healthy” but can be helpful in the moment

Keep in mind that many foods we crave (e.g. refined sugars and processed foods) have the potential to make you feel good right away, but cause sudden spikes and drops in blood sugar and can leave you feeling worse in the long-run

Be mindful of your body! Pay attention to what makes your body feel good (long-term) and what makes your body feel bad.